26 BIRDS OF PREY. I will take this opportunity of protesting against the perpetua¬ tion of an idea, still current, which originated with the older writers, concerning the "nobihty" of the Falconidcs, under which family name are grouped the Eagles, Falcons, Kites, and Hawks. They were until quite recently classed among the first of the feathered race ; but the systematists now place them below the Woodpeckers, and next above the Grouse and Pigeons. The majority of the Falconidce have an attractive physique and superior strength, as well as a haughty bearing. They are hand¬ some, stalwart ruffians, but they are nothing more. They are neither the most intelligent nor most enterprising of birds, nor the bravest. They are not even the swiftest, or most dexterous on the wing; and in bearing, proudly as they carry themselves, are not supreme. It is now considered probable that the tales of Eagles carrying off children are myths. GRAY SEA EAGLE. white-tailed eagle. Halleetus albicilla. Char, General color, grayish-brown (paler on margin of feathers); head and neck gray, — paler in old birds ; tail white; legs bare. Length : male, 33 inches; female, 38 inches. Nest. In a tree or on a rock, sometimes on the ground ; made of dry sticks loosely arranged and often piled to considerable height. Eggs. 1-3 (usually 2); dull white; 2.85 X 2.25. Mr. Hagerup reports that this European bird breeds in southern Greenland and is quite common there. It feeds principally on fish, but will eat any kind of meat or carrion, being particularly partial to water fowl, and is much more enterprising than is its congener, the Bald Eagle.